Nigerian Restaurants Making a Splash in Las Vegas

A visit to Sin City is about far more than gambling at the grand old casinos. There are myriad other things to do and see, from the famed Bellagio Fountains to shows by elite stars and much more besides. And Las Vegas has quickly become a top culinary destination, with tons of restaurants opening up to suit all palates and styles, and hundreds of top chefs from around the world flocking to the city to ply their trade.

Nigerian food is a relative newbie on the Vegas scene, but there are some top class restaurants offering great cuisine from the African nation. Modern consumers are becoming more curious when it comes to their food, so it’s not a surprise that there are some Nigerian restaurants making a splash on the scene. Let’s take a look at three of the best. 

Nigerian Cuisine By Folaf

Fresh ingredients, a warm welcoming staff, and intoxicating flavours — what more could you want from a Nigerian restaurant? Nigerian Cuisine by Folaf was opened by owner MJ to bring the tastes and smells of West Africa to Las Vegas, and has quickly become popular with locals and visitors alike, drawn in by its extensive menu and unique flavours. The restaurant is also noted for its focus on community, as it often participates in local events and collaborates with local organisations to promote cultural awareness, and promote the food and culture of Nigeria. Food wise, the restaurant is known for its flavoursome stews, delicious grilled meat, and the ubiquitous smoky, rich, and vibrant jollof rice. 

Nigerian Food

Simply titled, but definitely worth a trip off the strip is Nigerian Food, a small family-run restaurant specialising in the taste of home. Try the egusi soup, the beef with rice and the chicken with fried rice, all cooked to order and delicious to eat. While many in Vegas don’t tend to venture far away from the gambling resorts, this is worth the diversion. Gambling is, however, the major draw in Las Vegas, and around the world, with classic games available everywhere as well as hybrid games such as bingo slots online. But take a few steps away from the big hotels and you’ll find great restaurants like this one, with a warm welcome and delicious food to send you on your way. 

Calabash African Kitchen

Not solely Nigerian, but with the fantastic flavours of West Africa, this restaurant is well known for its vibrant atmosphere (live bands and DJs often perform) as well as its excellent cuisine. Try the lamb chops, okra stew and fataya pies, all prepared by a James Beard (SW) nominated chef. Fufu and stews are also very popular options, as well as the aforementioned jollof rice, a Nigerian staple in its wide ranging and delicious cuisine. Friendly staff, a warm atmosphere, and of course, the food, make this a place locals and visitors come back to again and again. 

Nigerian food seems to have gained a foothold in Las Vegas, competing with cuisine from all around the world. But its bright flavours, colours, and textures make it popular with all those adventurous to try it, or for Africans looking for that taste of home, after sampling the other delights Vegas has to offer.